The bill, S.B. No. 1558, aims to amend the Civil Practice and Remedies Code and the Family Code to establish liability protections for nonprofit entities that contract with the Department of Family and Protective Services or single source continuum contractors to provide community-based care or child welfare services. A new section, 84.0068, is added to the Civil Practice and Remedies Code, which grants immunity from civil liability to nonprofit entities classified as charitable organizations under specific conditions. These entities must be in good standing, which requires compliance with various operational standards, including conducting criminal background checks, ensuring staff training in child abuse prevention, and reporting misconduct.

Additionally, the bill modifies Section 264.170 of the Family Code to extend limited liability protections to nonprofit entities providing foster care or adoption services. The limitations on liability apply only when the entity or its personnel act within the scope of their contract and when the required insurance coverage is in effect. The bill specifies that these provisions will apply only to causes of action that accrue on or after its effective date, September 1, 2025, ensuring that any claims arising before this date will be governed by the previous law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 264.170 (Family Code 264)